nugent

any thoughts on pros/cons of downshifting? saves your brakes, but does it overwork the engine/burn too much gas? i always do just cuz it's more fun and you're always in the right gear to make a getaway in case some poser tries to bust a move.

Miwa

brakes are cheaper than clutches :P

nugent

you're saying downshifting wears out your clutch?

PetrolDave

Downshift - you should be in the optimum gear at all times according to Roadcraft

BluDemon

x2

BluDemon

You're using some wafer thin material to slow down a 4000 lb car. Where as brakes are 4 hunks of metal over 1/2" thick. Something is got to give sooner or later.

tjberb

You run over there without a second to lose, and what comes next, hey ____________

havabooz

correct me if im wrong, but if you match the revs before downshifting then there should be no strain

BluDemon

If you guys love to downshift to make the car sound like a NASCAR then yes there's going to be some strain.

A normal downshift while you slow to a stop to get ready to go when it turns green will show less wear then one that screaming down to a stop using engine braking.

McQueen993

IMO, nobody should downshift to slow down. That's what braking is for (simple common sense). Always downshift matching revs to be in proper gear and maintain control. Unless you're city driving all day, the incremental clutch wear will be immaterial.